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Snow ShovelNovember 29, 2007 I had some cash in my wallet so after stopping by the UPS Store to ship part 2 of Interminable Movie Job back to New York, I went to Shirley's in search of a snow shovel and a tarp to cover my bicycle. The tarp was easy (after some deliberation over whether 8-by-10 was big enough, or should I spring for 12-by-15? I sprang for the smaller one), but I didn't see snow shovels in the expected place -- down the skinny hallway that leads to the back door -- so I asked at the back counter. "Need some help with snow shovels," called the cashier, and Jesse the proprietor emerged from the workroom to assist. By then a discussion had developed around the cash register about how virtuous I was to be thinking of snow shovels at the end of November when the temperature was about 50 degrees Fahrenheit. There was also some speculation about whether buying a snow shovel at the end of November would hasten snowfall or postpone it indefinitely. Turns out I really was early because the snow shovels were still out in a storage semi at the far end of the back parking lot. Jesse and I walked out there, talking about preparedness, with particular reference to snow shovels and generators, which everyone wants as soon as a major storm is forecast or the power goes out. Stocking multiple generators is a drain on the inventory, so Shirley's doesn't do it. The overwhelming majority of people on Martha's Vineyard can survive a several-hour power outage with minimal discomfort, never mind hardship, and those whose health or well-being is seriously threatened probably have a generator on hand already. We agreed that it was a bad idea to special-order a generator for a householder while the power was out because as soon as the power came back on the idea of spending $800 or $900 on a generator would seem extravagant. Cash in advance, or at least a hefty deposit, was the only way to go. My snow shovel cost $9.99. The tarp was $5.99. It warms my thrifty New England heart to acquire two drop-dead useful items for less than $17. I've still got some cash in my wallet. When I'm in town tomorrow, I might get some new underwear and a couple more pairs of heavy socks.
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